Kenya’s golf team wrapped up their campaign at the 25th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan, with determination, pride and invaluable experience gained despite a challenging week on the course.
The tournament, held at the picturesque Tokyo Country Club, featured the world’s finest Deaf golfers competing under difficult weather conditions — cold mornings, swirling winds, and fast greens that tested even the most seasoned athletes. Kenya fielded a dedicated team led by veteran golfer Isaac Makokha, supported by teammates who gave their all in both the individual and team events.
Competing in his third Deaflympics, 33-year-old Isaac Makokha arrived in Tokyo targeting to upgrade his historic 2022 bronze medal to gold. But the change in playing format from match play (Turkey and Brazil) to stroke play came as a late surprise and disrupted his strategy.
Makokha carded 24-over-par 240, finishing 14th overall, while Germany’s John Allen dominated the field with an 11-under-par 205, winning his third consecutive Deaflympics title. USA’s Kevin Hall took silver, with German golfer Nico Guldan claiming bronze.
Despite the disappointment, Makokha remained defiant and hopeful:
“I wanted to win gold in Tokyo. I was ready and well prepared, but things changed. I will not give up — I must bring a Deaflympics gold medal to Kenya.”
Kenya’s other golfers also endured tough conditions as they worked to navigate the technical course. Although they did not make it into medal positions, their participation marks an important milestone for deaf golf development in Kenya.
Coach David Kihara praised the players for their commitment under the harsh weather:
“The course was in good condition, but the cold mornings and strong winds made play very difficult. These are not conditions our players are used to, but they coped as best as they could.”
The athletes showed resilience throughout the tournament, gaining competitive exposure that will be vital for future international events.
Tokyo 2025 offered Kenya’s golfers lessons, growth, and clearer pathways toward improvement. The team remains united in its goal to strengthen Kenya’s presence in global deaf golf — with Makokha promising an even stronger comeback.
As the Deaflympics continue, Kenya celebrates the courage and sportsmanship of its golf team, whose perseverance reflects the true spirit of #Champions.
